Why Bachelor of Science?
Do you have an analytical mind? A knack for maths? A passion for pushing the boundaries of what is known? Are you a persistent troubleshooter who loves complex problems? This degree could be your perfect match.
Drive technological progress. Make a big impact. Unravel the mysteries of the universe.
Computational physics stands at the frontier of knowledge, blending physics, mathematics, and computer science to meet some of humanity's greatest challenges. Through modelling and simulations, it tackles global issues like climate change, space exploration, renewable energy and disease prevention.
Prepare to push yourself, think big, and unlock careers in astrophysics, defence, sustainability, and beyond. Your calculations could help shape the future of technology and innovation.
Overview
Our Bachelor of Science majoring in Computational Physics is for big thinkers and math whizzes. It is highly physics-focused, laying a strong foundation for you to advance in computational fields. Study core physics principles like electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and thermal physics. Use numerical methods and advanced mathematics to understand and solve complex problems. Build practical skills for programming and data analysis using languages like Python and MATLAB.
In more advanced courses, you’ll dive into sophisticated high-performance computing techniques. Create simulations to model physical systems – like weather patterns, how galaxies form, or how atoms interact. Get familiar with advanced software and algorithms. Communicate complex results through visual tools like graphs, images, and animations.
Learn to solve cutting-edge problems in theoretical, computational and mathematical physics. Our degree opens doors to dynamic careers in areas like engineering, manufacturing and meteorology.
Key features
Gain a firm grasp of fundamental physics.- Tackle complex theoretical, computational and mathematical problems.
- Master programming languages such as Python, MATLAB and C.
- Build practical experience in our high-performance computing laboratory.
- Learn from world-class researchers.
- Choose complementary electives in areas like Space Science, Technology and Biomedicine.
What you'll learn
The best path to success in this field is building a truly solid foundation. This degree has a strong physics underpinning and is taught with the mathematical rigour necessary to succeed in computational physics.
You’ll explore fundamental physics, from mechanics and electromagnetism to thermal and statistical physics. Learn how particles and celestial bodies interact, and how to predict their movements with precision. In quantum mechanics and solid-state physics, you’ll unravel the behaviours and properties of atoms and electrons, laying the groundwork for innovations in technology and materials science.
You’ll study essential mathematics, such as differential equations and multivariable calculus. In introductory computer programming, you'll get immediate feedback so you can improve quickly. Through numerical analysis, you'll explore computational techniques to solve mathematical models.
In your third year, you’ll advance to sophisticated high performance computing techniques. Study advanced programming tactics and problem-solving methodologies. Practise software engineering solo and in teams. Create algorithms to simulate natural phenomena. Together with linear algebra, you'll study numerical methods and their implementation.
Your courses will cover:
- Quantum mechanics
- Multivariable calculus
- Electromagnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Solid state and photonics
- Dynamics and relativity
- Computer programming
- Object orientated programming.
You can also broaden your scope with electives from across Adelaide University in areas like Space Science, Technology or Finance.
Majors
The Bachelor of Science is also available with majors in the following:
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 42 to 54 units for Core Courses, and
- Either:
- 30 to 96 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 48 units from Discipline courses, and
- At least 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 0 to 48 units for Electives
Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:
- 6 to 12 units for all Program Core, and
- 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
- 6 to 30 units from Core Selective
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
|
Course code
SCIE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells
|
Course code
BIOL1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms
|
Course code
BIOL1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1A
|
Course code
CHEM1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
EART1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1A
|
Course code
PHYS1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Linear Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX104
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Differential Equations
|
Course code
MATHX202
|
Units
6
|
Notes
Program Core - Students in the following Majors will not enrol in STAT1000 Data Skills for Scientists:
Computational Physics, Experimental Physics, Nuclear and Radiation Physics, Physics and Geophysics, Space Science and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics
Complete exactly 72 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Problem Solving and Programming
|
Course code
COMP1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Object-Oriented Programming
|
Course code
COMP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Numerical Methods
|
Course code
MATHX204
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Multivariable Calculus
|
Course code
MATHX203
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Quantum Mechanics and Experimental Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electromagnetism 2
|
Course code
PHYS2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Solid State Physics and Photonics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Classical Physics 2
|
Course code
PHYS2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electromagnetism, Quantum and Statistical Mechanics
|
Course code
PHYS3002
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Dynamics and Relativity
|
Course code
PHYS3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Solid State Physics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Quantum Mechanics
|
Course code
PHYS3007
|
Units
6
|
Notes
The courses PHYS1001 Physics 1A, PHYS1002 Physics 1B, MATH1004 Calculus 1, MATH1005 Calculus 2 and MATHX104 Linear Algebra all require students to have passed certain SACE Stage 2 subjects, or equivalent subjects, to be eligible to enrol. Please see the course information webpages for prerequisite and/or assumed knowledge details. Foundational pathways are available to students without this background, which may increase the duration of the program beyond 3 years. Please contact the Science Program Director to discuss specific enrolment advice based on your previous study.
Complete at least 6 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Professional Skills in Animal Science
|
Course code
ANIM3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
|
Course code
ANIM3900
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2
|
Course code
BIOL2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3A
|
Course code
BIOL3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Palaeontology 3
|
Course code
EART3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Geoscience Program 3
|
Course code
EART3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computational Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Experimental Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX301
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Placement
|
Course code
SCIE3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Project
|
Course code
SCIE3901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3B
|
Course code
BIOL2016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART3004
|
Units
6
|
Notes
If studying ANACBSCIE - Analytical Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ANIBBSCIE - Animal Behaviour then complete ANIM3900 - Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
If studying ANISBSCIE - Animal Science then complete ANIM3901 - Professional Skills in Animal Science (UoA)
If studying BIOCBSCIE - Biochemistry then complete BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying BIOTBSCIE - Biotechnology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying CHEYBSCIE - Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying COMPBSCIE - Computational Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics
If studying ECOLBSCIE - Ecology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ENVGBSCIE - Environmental and Geospatial Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ENVSBSCIE - Environmental Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOLBSCIE - Evolutionary Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOPBSCIE - Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studying EXPEBSCIE - Experimental Physics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying FOODBSCIE - Food Science and Technology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying GENEBSCIE - Genetics then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 or BIOL3900 - Genetics Practical 3Aor BIOL3901 - Genetics Practical 3B and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying GEOLBSCIE - Geology then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studying GEOEBSCIE - Geology and Earth Resources then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studying GEOPBSCIE - Geology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studying GEOYBSCIE - Geophysics then complete EART3004 - Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation and may also complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MARWBSCIE - Marine and Wildlife Conservation then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MEDBBSCIE - Medicinal and Biological Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying MICRBSCIE - Microbiology and Immunology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3 and BIOL3012 - Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
If studying NUCCBSCIE - Nuclear Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingNUCRBSCIE - Nuclear and Radiation Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying PHYGBSCIE - Physics and Geophysics then complete PHYS3004 - Optics and Photonics 3 or PHYSX300 - Computational Physics
If studying PLABBSCIE - Plant Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying PACHBSCIE - Pure and Applied Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying SOILBSCIE - Soil Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying SPACBSCIE - Space Science and Astrophysics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying THEOBSCIE - Theoretical Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
Career outcomes
Careers in physics are competitive, but the computational skills you gain through this degree will make you incredibly versatile. You might work with astrophysicists in the Australian Space Agency, simulating galaxy formations or cosmological evolution. You could predict the impacts of climate change with CSIRO, NASA, or the United Nations. Perhaps you’ll work at Google, developing complex algorithms for maps or materials.
You could use your expertise to advance in:
- Game design
- Finance
- Galactic physics
- Renewables
- Conservation
- Satellite tech
- Robotics
- Virtual reality
- Engineering
- Defence
- Genomics
- Material sciences
- Nanotechnology
- Nuclear power
- Disease control
- Meteorology
- Manufacturing
- Medicine
- Space industries.
You could also become a:
- Data scientist
- Software engineer
- Systems analyst
- Quantum algorithm developer
- Climate modeler
- High performance computing specialist.
Industry trends
Computational physics is rapidly evolving, embracing machine learning and data-driven models for more precise simulations. More and more, we will use high-performance and quantum computing to solve complex problems. New tools are being developed every day to improve innovation and collaboration in the field, including better open-source tools and more specialised, industry-specific software. As computing continues to advance, careers in computational physics will only increase in popularity. If you’re up to the challenge and prepared to evolve with the industry, you’ll find a world of opportunities awaits.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics.
Graduates are eligible for membership of the AIP.
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
